SKM holds coordination meet ahead of PM Modi’s Sikkim visit

GANGTOK,: In preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Sikkim on May 29, the ruling Sikkim Krantikari Morcha (SKM) party convened a high-level coordination meeting in the capital on Tuesday. The meeting was chaired by SKM working president Kunga Nima Lepcha.

The gathering saw the participation of SKM chief coordinator Sonam Lama, secretary general Arun Upreti, ministers, MLAs, advisors, vice presidents, coordinators, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Gangtok, zilla adhakshyas, upa-adhakshyas, panchayat members, executive body members, and representatives from various frontal organisations.

Speaking to the media, SKM secretary general Arun Upreti stated that the coordination meeting was held under the direction of SKM president and Chief Minister PS Golay, to ensure full party support for the Prime Minister’s visit, which coincides with the Golden Jubilee celebration of Sikkim’s Statehood.

“The State government has completed most of the preparations, but our party president wants SKM to extend all possible assistance to make the visit of our most popular Prime Minister a grand success,” said Upreti.

Upreti described the upcoming event as “historic,” highlighting the coming together of “two of the nation’s most popular leaders—PM Narendra Modi and CM PS Golay.”

“This visit is a result of the Chief Minister’s cordial relationship with the Prime Minister, which has developed over the past six years,” Upreti added.

The SKM secretary general also informed that security arrangements for the visit are extensive, and urged all attendees of the public event at Paljor Stadium to be seated by 8 am sharp. He appealed to citizens to maintain discipline and wear traditional attire to reflect Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage.

“We want to show the world Sikkim’s unity and pride in our traditions. Let us make this event not just successful, but memorable,” he said.

Upreti expressed gratitude to the Government of India and the Prime Minister for releasing a special Rs. 50 commemorative coin to mark Sikkim Statehood’s Golden Jubilee occasion. He also thanked the Chief Minister for his continued efforts to maintain a harmonious relationship with the Centre.

Earlier in the day, the meeting was addressed by senior party leaders including chief coordinator Sonam Lama, MLA Kala Rai (Upper Burtuk), SKM spokesperson Jacob Khaling, general secretary (headquarters) Pawan Gurung, and SKM Nari Shakti vice president Tshering Palden Bhutia.